Edina Robotics FIRST Team 1816 won the Regional Chairman’s Award at the March 2-4, 2017 Lake Superior Regional in Duluth, MN. The Chairman’s Award is considered the most prestigious award conferred on teams by FIRST. At each event, it is awarded to a single team that, in the Judges’ opinion, best exemplifies FIRST goals of culture-change to inspire greater awareness and respect for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). The Green Machine focused on creating an award submission package that showcased all that 1816 has done over the past five years, with emphasis on this current 2017 Season, in regard to outreach, STEM advocacy, and the impact of FIRST on our team overall. Each submission must include a three-minute video, which is shown at the end of the competition.  Please watch our video, created by Caroline H., here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVIejxYJuwo

“Winning Chairman’s shows that we’ve changed the culture surrounding STEM in our community, state, and beyond,” said chairman’s presenter and team co-captain Owen S. “I’m so proud of our team!”

Winning the Chairman’s Award now qualifies The Green Machine for two additional competitions. We will compete at FIRST World Championships in St. Louis, MO., April 26 – 29, and we will also compete at the 6th annual MSHSL FIRST Robotics State Championship, May 20, at Mariucci Arena.

In additional to winning the Regional Chairman’s Award, Team 1816 also won the UL Industrial Safety Award, which signifies exceptional safety measures and precautions taken by a FIRST team. The Green Machine is honored to be the recipient of this award.